Minnehaha County Jail Overview

Minnehaha County Jail, located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, serves as a critical correctional facility for the region, holding a mixture of male and female inmates. With a capacity of 400 detainees, the jail handles a variety of inmates, from those awaiting trial to those serving shorter sentences. It also houses inmates from neighboring counties, reflecting its importance to the region’s correctional infrastructure.

The jail has undergone significant expansions and improvements since its original construction in 1888, including a 2022 upgrade that added 128 beds and enhanced mental health services. The facility provides a range of programs, including GED classes, substance abuse treatment, and religious services, making it a place focused not only on incarceration but also rehabilitation​

Minnehaha County Jail in Sioux Falls, SD.

Contact Information for Minnehaha County Jail

Visiting Information for Minnehaha County Jail

Visiting a loved one at Minnehaha County Jail is a structured process aimed at maintaining security while allowing inmates to maintain ties with family and friends. The jail offers both in-person and remote video visitation options.

  • Visiting Hours:

    • Lobby Visits (on-site): Tuesday to Saturday, 7:30 AM – 10:15 AM, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM.
    • Web Visits (remote): Daily, 7:30 AM – 9:30 PM.

  • What to Bring: Visitors must provide valid photo identification (e.g., driver’s license or passport). Personal belongings such as bags or backpacks are not allowed in the visiting area.

  • What to Expect: Visits typically last 30 minutes, with a maximum of one visit per day. During the visit, both the inmate and visitor must remain visible to the camera in case of video visits, and all sessions may be monitored and recorded for security purposes​

How to Book a Visit at Minnehaha County Jail

Booking a visit is straightforward but must be done 24 hours in advance. You can either call the jail directly or schedule online through the facility’s visitation platform.

To schedule a visit:

  1. Call (605) 367-4321 or visit the jail’s website to arrange the visit.
  2. Provide the inmate’s name and ID number.
  3. Ensure you have a valid government-issued ID for verification during the visit.

Up to two visitors are allowed at a time, and minors must be accompanied by an adult​

Directions to Minnehaha County Jail and Parking Information

Minnehaha County Jail is centrally located in Sioux Falls at 500 North Minnesota Avenue. It is easily accessible via local roads, and there is ample parking available nearby for visitors. If you’re traveling from outside Sioux Falls, you can take I-229, exiting onto North Minnesota Avenue. The jail provides clear signage, making it easy to locate the facility

What Life is Like for a Prisoner at Minnehaha County Jail

Life inside Minnehaha County Jail reflects a balance between maintaining security and providing inmates with opportunities for rehabilitation. Inmates have access to basic amenities like hygiene kits and medical care, along with a range of educational and vocational programs aimed at reducing recidivism. However, overcrowding has been a persistent challenge, often impacting the quality of life for those incarcerated.

Mental health services have become a particular focus, with a dedicated unit and ongoing support to help inmates manage psychological issues. The facility’s efforts to reduce recidivism include work-release programs and substance abuse counseling

Famous Prisoners at Minnehaha County Jail

While Minnehaha County Jail has not housed a large number of nationally known inmates, it has dealt with notable local criminals, including those involved in high-profile cases related to drug offenses and violent crimes. Occasionally, individuals with extensive criminal backgrounds from surrounding counties are also housed here due to the jail’s capacity and resources​

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Where is Minnehaha County Jail located?
    Minnehaha County Jail is located at 500 North Minnesota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD, 57104.

  • How do I contact an inmate at Minnehaha County Jail?
    You can call the jail directly at (605) 367-4321 or use the NCIC messaging system to send electronic messages.

  • How do I send money to an inmate at Minnehaha County Jail?
    You can send money via the jail’s approved electronic payment service. Cash and checks are not accepted.

  • What are the visiting hours at Minnehaha County Jail?
    Visiting hours are from 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM, Tuesday through Saturday for lobby visits, and 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM daily for remote video visits.

  • What items can I bring to a visit?
    Only identification and keys are allowed during visitation. Leave other personal belongings in your vehicle.

  • What is life like inside Minnehaha County Jail?
    Inmates are provided with basic amenities and have access to educational programs, but the facility often faces overcrowding.

  • How do I schedule a visit at Minnehaha County Jail?
    Visits can be scheduled online or by phone at least 24 hours in advance.

  • Can inmates receive mail?
    Yes, inmates can receive mail sent to PO Box 591, Longview, TX. All mail is scanned and delivered electronically to inmates.

  • How do I look up an inmate at Minnehaha County Jail?
    You can use the inmate roster available on the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Department website to search for an inmate.

  • What mental health services are available at Minnehaha County Jail?
    The jail provides mental health support through dedicated units and professionals, including a full-time psychiatrist.

Conclusion

Minnehaha County Jail plays a critical role in the regional correctional system, offering not only incarceration but also rehabilitation through various programs. While it faces challenges like overcrowding, it remains committed to improving inmate welfare and reducing recidivism.

For more information on Minnehaha County Jail, you can visit the official Minnehaha County Government website

Visit McClain County Jail​